By Anthony Joseph

We all know that bullies never negotiate in good faith. They extract as many concessions as they can. Yet they continue to pursue their agenda undeterred. Appeasing bullies only fuels their sense of power, encouraging further aggression. This is precisely why the global community must take a firm stance against the looming tariff threats posed by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. His return to power threatens not only Canada, Mexico, Greenland and Panama on day one but also the broader international economic order. Rather than succumbing to intimidation, Canada and its global allies must unite, act strategically, and confront this threat head-on.

During his campaign for the White House, Trump declared his intention to impose tariffs on all trading partners, stating that ‘tariffs for everyone’ would be his policy, with some countries facing tariffs as high as one hundred percent or more. This blanket approach to trade protectionism signaled a radical departure from established norms, threatening to destabilize global markets and disrupt long-standing alliances.
Trump has a history of using tariffs as a weapon, often targeting close allies. During his previous term, he imposed tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, citing national security concerns. Now he has threatened to impose a twenty-five percent tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico on his first day back in office. Such policies could wreak havoc on the economies of both countries and strain relations across the continent.
In response, Canada must lead a coalition to counter these aggressive tactics with unity, resilience, and a well-coordinated strategy, because in the absence of unity in facing economic aggression in international relations, bullies thrive by dividing and isolating their targets. Therefore, unity among affected nations is paramount. Canada should take the initiative by forming a coalition of countries that stand to be impacted by Trump’s protectionist policies. This coalition could include Mexico, Greenland, Panama, and other nations that are facing similar threats or share economic ties with the U.S.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, known for his commitment to multilateralism, is well-positioned to lead such an effort. He should convene an emergency summit of allied nations to formulate a comprehensive response. Together, these countries can develop a multi-pronged strategy that includes strengthening economic ties among themselves, preparing retaliatory tariffs, and leveraging international institutions like the United Nations to amplify their collective voice.
While it is true that the U.S. wields significant power in global forums, a united coalition can exert substantial diplomatic and economic influence. By speaking with one voice, these nations can challenge protectionist measures and advocate for a rules-based international trade system that benefits all.
Canada is uniquely positioned to lead due to its reputation as a beacon of fairness and equity; that makes it a natural leader in this effort. Over the years, Canada has made significant strides in addressing social justice issues, promoting diversity, and fostering inclusion. Under Trudeau’s leadership, Canada has taken steps to redress historical injustices and build a more equitable society. While challenges remain, Canada’s progress contrasts sharply with the divisive rhetoric and exclusionary policies often seen elsewhere.
This commitment to inclusivity and fairness may explain why Canada has become a target. Leaders who prioritize social justice and equity pose a threat to those who seek to maintain outdated, exclusionary systems. By standing up to Trump’s threats, Canada can not only protect its own interests but also uphold the values of fairness and cooperation that underpin the international order.
If Trump follows through on his tariff threats, the economic consequences could be severe: Canadian and Mexican goods would become prohibitively expensive for American consumers, leading to inflation, reduced purchasing power, and economic stagnation. Rather than caving to such pressure, Canada and its allies should call Trump’s bluff, and counter tariffs with strength based on a collective effort.
One potential response could involve coordinated action by the international community. Imagine a scenario where the United Nations, acting as a unified body, agrees to halt exports to the U.S. for a set period. This would disrupt the American economy, which relies heavily on imports to sustain its consumer-driven market. During this period, member countries could trade among themselves, ensuring that essential goods and services remain available.
The goal would not be to punish the American people but to demonstrate that the world will not be bullied into submission. Such a strategy would require careful planning and collaboration, but its impact could be profound. The American economy, already grappling with internal divisions and mounting debt, could ill afford a prolonged trade standoff.
Canada and its allies should therefore work to reduce their long-term vulnerability by diversifying their trade partnerships. An emerging bloc of nations known as BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) is already challenging U.S. economic dominance. By collaborating with BRICS and other like-minded nations, Canada can foster new trade relationships and reduce its reliance on American markets.
While preparing for economic confrontation is essential, diplomacy must remain the primary tool for resolving conflicts. Canada, with its history of peacekeeping and commitment to multilateralism, is well-suited to lead diplomatic efforts. By engaging with allies, building coalitions, and advocating for fair trade practices, Trudeau and other world leaders can work to prevent a trade war before it begins.
On the other hand, bullies respect strength, not weakness. Therefore, Canada and its allies must be prepared to take decisive action, if necessary, by imposing counter-tariffs. Furthermore, they must invest in domestic industries to reduce dependence on external markets.
In a world increasingly defined by division and uncertainty, unity is our greatest strength. By acting decisively, the global community can send a clear message: we will not be bullied into submission.
Trump’s return to power presents new challenges, but it also offers an opportunity for the world to work toward a just and equitable international order; an idea to which the world has largely paid lip service.
Now we know that it is the only way to ensure a future where no nation stands alone against aggression.
The time to act is now. Together we are stronger than any bully in the room.
#UnityInDiversity #StandUpForFairTrade #CanadaStrong #TariffThreats #GlobalUnity #EconomicJustice #BRICS #JustinTrudeau #StrongerTogether